Selecting the best wireless earbuds for working out can be surprisingly challenging. Not all earbuds are designed to offer the comfort, stability, and durability required during intense physical activity. If you’ve ever used wired headphones while exercising, you’ve probably experienced the frustration of tangled cables interrupting your routine.
Wireless and true wireless earbuds are a far better option for exercise, offering freedom from wires and greater convenience. But with so many choices available, how do you know which ones are best suited for your workouts?
Whether you’re looking for reliable connectivity, water resistance, effective noise cancelation, or cushioned ear tips that stay comfortable during long sessions, the right earbuds can make all the difference.
We’ve spent hours assessing and evaluating various models to help you find the ideal pair for your exercise needs. Here’s what we discovered.
Roundup of the Best Wireless Earbuds for Working Out
| Overall Best | Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds |
| Best for Active Users | Skullcandy Push Active In-Ear Wireless Earbuds |
| Best Budget Option | JLab Go Air Sport |
| Best for Advanced Features | Jabra Elite 8 Active |
| Best for Battery Life | JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds |
| Best for Health Monitoring | Amazfit PowerBuds Pro Wireless Earbuds |
| Best for Noise Cancellation | TREBLAB Z2 Workout Headphone |
| Best for Durability | Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless In-Ear Earbuds |
Wireless vs. True Wireless Earbuds: What’s the Difference?
The difference between wireless and true wireless earbuds can be confusing for many users. Wireless earbuds have been around longer and are typically less expensive than true wireless models.
The main distinction is that wireless earbuds still have wires connecting the two earpieces, even though they connect to your device via Bluetooth. In contrast, true wireless earbuds have no wires at all. Each earbud is an independent piece that connects to your smartphone via Bluetooth, offering greater freedom of movement.
True wireless earbuds are often sweat and water-resistant, making them ideal for workouts, though this feature can vary depending on the model. Their completely wire-free design makes them highly convenient for everyday use.
Wireless Workout Earbuds vs. Wireless Workout Headphones – Which Is Better?
When deciding between wireless workout earbuds and headphones, it comes down to personal preference and workout needs. Wireless earbuds generally provide a better fit with ear wings for stability and excellent noise isolation, making them ideal for intense activities. They’re also lightweight and easy to carry, adding to their convenience.
In contrast, wireless headphones might offer better sound quality and noise cancellation but can be bulkier and less portable. For most workouts, wireless earbuds are often the preferred choice due to their secure fit and portability.
10 Factors to Consider When Buying Wireless Earbuds for Working Out
When selecting wireless earbuds for your workout sessions, several crucial factors can influence your experience. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
1. Sound Quality
For those who enjoy music during workouts, sound quality is paramount. Look for earbuds that deliver clear and balanced audio, with precise lows, mids, and highs.
The bass should be deep and rich but not overpowering, ensuring an immersive experience that keeps you motivated without distorting the sound.
2. Ear Tips
Comfort is key when using earbuds during exercise. High-quality wireless earbuds come with ear tips in multiple sizes, allowing you to choose the perfect fit.
The right ear tips should be soft and secure, providing a snug fit that stays in place even during intense movements, much like the plush ear cushions found in the best workout headphones.
3. Volume Control
Ease of use is important during workouts. Many top brands place volume controls directly on the earpieces, allowing you to adjust the sound or switch tracks with a simple touch.
This feature is particularly handy during exercise, eliminating the need to reach for your smartphone and disrupting your routine.
4. Battery Life
While wireless earbuds generally offer less battery life than full-sized headphones, you can still expect between two to six hours of continuous playtime, depending on the model.
Be aware that advertised playtime often includes the additional charges provided by the carrying case, not just a single continuous session.
5. Size of the Ear Buds
The size of the earbuds is critical for comfort and functionality. Avoid bulky designs that can be uncomfortable or tiny models that may not stay secure during workouts.
Finding the right size is essential, especially if you have slightly larger ears, to ensure they stay in place while you move.
6. Charging Case
True wireless earbuds come with a charging case that doubles as a carrying case. The case should be robust and durable enough to withstand daily use and protect the earbuds.
Some cases offer wireless charging capabilities, while others connect via USB. Choose one that fits your lifestyle and ensures your earbuds are always ready to go.
7. Active Noise Cancelation
Active noise cancellation (ANC) is a valuable feature for those who want to block out external noise during workouts. ANC earbuds use microphones to neutralize background noise, enhancing sound quality.
However, if you prefer to be aware of your surroundings, consider earbuds with adjustable ANC or ambient sound modes.
8. Water and Sweat Resistance
Look for earbuds with a minimum IPX4 rating to ensure they are water and sweat resistant. IPX6 ratings offer even more protection against dust and water, though not all models are suitable for swimming.
Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines regarding water sports to avoid damaging your earbuds.
9. Microphone Quality
While listening to music might be your primary focus, a good-quality microphone is essential if you need to take calls during workouts.
Ensure the earbuds have a microphone that can handle ambient noise and allow you to communicate clearly, even when you’re out of breath.
10. Connectivity
Reliable Bluetooth connectivity is non-negotiable for wireless earbuds. A stable connection ensures that your earbuds sync seamlessly with your device, allowing you to focus on your workout rather than troubleshooting connection issues.
Look for earbuds with the latest Bluetooth version for the best performance.
Top 8 Wireless Workout Headphones and Earbuds
Let’s now look at the 8 best headphones and earbuds for a stellar workout experience:
1. Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds
Overall Best
What Impressed Us
- Unique ear-hook design for a secure fit during exercise
- Balanced sound profile with adequate bass and mid response
- Water and sweat resistant with IPX4 rating
- Long battery life with up to 12 hours of playback
- Seamless pairing with iOS devices using the H1 chip
- Good control scheme and comfortable in-ear fit
What Disappointed Us
- Lower IP rating compared to other sports earbuds
- No active noise cancellation
The Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds are chosen as the overall best for their superior performance in demanding workout environments. These earbuds stand out for their secure fit and robust design, specifically engineered to meet the needs of active users who require reliable audio without compromises during intense physical activities.
For overall use, the Powerbeats Pro excel with their impressive versatility. Equipped with Apple’s H1 chip, they offer seamless integration with iOS devices, providing a stable, high-quality connection. The earbuds deliver powerful, balanced sound that energizes any workout, ensuring that music, calls, and notifications are handled with clarity and precision.
When it comes to comfort and functionality, the Powerbeats Pro are unmatched. The adjustable, secure-fit ear hooks, combined with multiple ear tip options, ensure that every user finds a perfect fit. They feature intuitive volume and track controls on each earbud, allowing easy adjustments on the fly.
With up to 9 hours of listening time and more than 24 hours with the charging case, they are built to last through extended training sessions. Although they lack active noise cancellation, their design provides natural noise isolation. Furthermore, their high level of water and sweat resistance makes them ideal for any exercise scenario.
In conclusion, the Beats Powerbeats Pro are the definitive choice for fitness enthusiasts seeking dependable, high-quality earbuds. Offering exceptional sound, comfort, and durability, they enhance any workout experience, proving themselves as the leader in their category for 2024.
View on Amazon: Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds
2. Skullcandy Push Active In-Ear Wireless Earbuds
Best for Active Users
What Impressed Us
- Excellent battery life and fast charging capabilities
- Comfortable and secure fit with ear hooks
- IP55 rating for sweat, dust, and water resistance
- Affordable price point
- Supports voice control and has a companion app with customizable EQ
What Disappointed Us
- Bulky design and charging case
- Sound quality may not be suitable for audiophiles
The Skullcandy Push Active In-Ear Wireless Earbuds are the top choice for active users, thanks to their targeted features that support dynamic and vigorous activities. Designed with a secure and adjustable fit, these earbuds ensure stability no matter the movement or intensity of your workout.
Ideal for those who are always on the move, the Skullcandy Push Active earbuds offer specialized ‘Stay Aware’ mode, enhancing safety by allowing ambient sounds to enter, keeping users alert to their surroundings. Their robust design is complemented by a hands-free voice control feature, which is perfect for managing music and calls without breaking stride.
The Push Active earbuds are known for their comfort, providing a customizable fit with various ear tip sizes. They deliver impressive sound quality with enhanced bass to boost your energy during workouts. With up to 40 hours of battery life including the charging case, touch controls for easy operation, and IP55-rated sweat and dust resistance, they are crafted to withstand all workout challenges.
In conclusion, the Skullcandy Push Active In-Ear Wireless Earbuds stand out for anyone who requires dependable, feature-rich audio gear that keeps pace with active lifestyles and challenging fitness routines, making them a must-have for sports enthusiasts.
View on Amazon: Skullcandy Push Active In-Ear Wireless Earbuds
3. JLab Go Air Sport
Best Budget Option
What Impressed Us
- Affordable price
- Secure earhook design for a comfortable and secure fit
- IP55 sweat and splash resistance
- Long battery life with 32+ hours of total playtime
- Supports Bluetooth 5.1 and AAC/SBC codecs
- Touch controls for volume, track, and call management
What Disappointed Us
- No active noise cancellation
- No app support for customization
JLab Go Air Sport earbuds are recognized as the best budget option for providing solid performance at a wallet-friendly price. They offer essential features without compromising on quality, perfect for casual exercisers and those new to wireless fitness earbuds.
For overall use, the Go Air Sport provides easy touch controls and a dual connect feature that allows each earbud to be used independently. They deliver a balanced sound profile with JLab’s custom EQ3 sound that adjusts to different music genres.
Designed for comfort, these earbuds include three sets of gel tips to ensure a snug fit. They lack active noise cancellation but offer decent passive noise isolation. The IP55 rating makes them resistant to sweat and water, and they boast a remarkable 32 hours of total battery life with the charging case.
In conclusion, JLab Go Air Sport earbuds are an excellent choice for those seeking quality and affordability. They provide reliable performance, substantial battery life, and essential features needed for a satisfying workout experience.
View on Amazon: JLab Go Air Sport
4. Jabra Elite 8 Active
Best for Advanced Features
What Impressed Us
- Comfortable and secure fit
- Durable build
- Long battery life
- Effective noise cancellation
- Good sound quality
What Disappointed Us
- Sound can be one-dimensional at times
- On-ear controls can affect the fit
The Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds are tailored for tech-savvy fitness enthusiasts seeking advanced features that enhance both their workout and audio experience. These earbuds offer cutting-edge technology, including active noise cancellation and HearThrough technology, allowing for immersive sound or situational awareness as needed.
For those prioritizing high-tech capabilities, the Jabra Elite 8 Active shines with features like built-in motion sensors and voice assistant support, which are ideal for hands-free control and workout tracking. Their performance is optimized for active use, with secure fit options to ensure the earbuds stay in place during rigorous activities.
Beyond their technical prowess, the Elite 8 Active offers superb sound quality, customizable through the Jabra Sound+ app, and robust battery life, providing up to 7 hours of playback and an additional 30 hours with the charging case. They are also waterproof, making them resilient against all workout conditions.
In conclusion, the Jabra Elite 8 Active earbuds are the top choice for users who demand the best in technology and performance. Their advanced features, superb durability, and excellent sound quality make them a standout option for anyone looking to elevate their audio experience while engaging in active pursuits.
View on Amazon: Jabra Elite 8 Active
5. JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
Best for Battery Life
What Impressed Us
- Durable and sporty design with IP66 rating
- Secure fit with ear hooks
- Long battery life (15 hours + 55 hours with charging case)
- Wireless charging and Tile integration
- Good sound quality with a balanced signature
What Disappointed Us
- Poor call quality
- Noise-canceling capabilities are not exceptional
The JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 earbuds are recognized for their exceptional battery life, making them perfect for long training sessions or extended use without frequent recharges. These earbuds are a powerhouse in performance, designed for athletes and active users who need reliable longevity in their listening devices.
Outstanding for those who don’t want to worry about charging often, the Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 provides up to 15 hours of playtime with active noise cancellation on, and an impressive 55 hours total with the charging case. The active noise cancellation feature also means users can immerse themselves in their music without outside interruptions, enhancing focus during workouts.
These earbuds don’t just last longer; they’re equipped with customizable sound settings through the JLab Air ANC app and boast IP66 sweat resistance, which makes them tough against all elements and workout intensities. Comfort is also key, with multiple ear tip sizes included ensuring a secure and snug fit.
Overall, the JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 earbuds are the ideal choice for those who prioritize battery life without sacrificing quality and functionality. Their extensive playtime, robust build, and excellent sound quality ensure they stand out as a top contender for the best workout companion.
View on Amazon: JLab Epic Air Sport ANC Gen 2 True Wireless Bluetooth Earbuds
6. Amazfit PowerBuds Pro Wireless Earbuds
Best for Health Monitoring
What Impressed Us
- Excellent sound quality with a bass-heavy signature
- Effective active noise cancellation
- Heart rate monitoring and posture tracking
- Reminders to take regular breaks and protect your spine
- Good battery life with 9 hours of playtime
What Disappointed Us
- No optional over-ear loops for added security during high-intensity workouts
- Heart rate measurements may be less accurate than chest strap monitors
Amazfit PowerBuds Pro are uniquely positioned as the best earbuds for health monitoring, integrating fitness tracking directly into your listening experience. These innovative earbuds are ideal for health-conscious users who appreciate multifunctionality from their audio devices.
With built-in heart rate monitoring and posture alerts, the PowerBuds Pro go beyond traditional audio functions, helping users stay aware of their physical health while they enjoy their music. This feature is particularly valuable during workouts, where monitoring your heart rate can help gauge intensity and effectiveness.
The sound quality doesn’t take a backseat, offering dynamic drivers that ensure rich audio with clear highs and deep bass. They also feature active noise cancellation to block out distractions and focus on your fitness goals. Additionally, with an IP55 rating for water and dust resistance, they are built to withstand rigorous activity.
Concluding, the Amazfit PowerBuds Pro earbuds are a perfect blend of health technology and high-quality audio. For those who want more from their earbuds than just music, these offer an impressive array of health tracking features that make them an indispensable workout partner.
View on Amazon: Amazfit PowerBuds Pro Wireless Earbuds
7. TREBLAB Z2
Best for Noise Cancellation
What Impressed Us
- Well-balanced sound profile
- Long battery life
- Comfortable design
- Affordable price
- Supports multi-device pairing and aptX-LL
What Disappointed Us
- ANC technology may not be as effective as other models
- Shallow ear cups may cause discomfort during extended use
The TREBLAB Z2 Workout Headphones are top-tier for those seeking effective noise cancellation in their fitness audio gear. Designed for users who want to completely immerse themselves in their workout playlists, these headphones provide superior sound isolation and active noise cancellation to enhance focus and performance during exercises.
Known for their over-ear design, the Z2 headphones offer comfortable, secure fit that remains in place no matter the movement, making them ideal for high-intensity workouts. The active noise cancellation technology helps block out gym noise or outdoor distractions, allowing for a more concentrated and enjoyable listening experience.
Additionally, the Z2 headphones are equipped with premium-quality sound drivers that deliver rich bass and crisp trebles. They boast an impressive 35-hour battery life, ensuring they last through multiple workouts before needing a recharge. The IPX4 water resistance also ensures they can handle sweat and light rain.
In summary, the TREBLAB Z2 Workout Headphones are a fantastic choice for anyone seeking the best noise cancellation capabilities in their workout audio equipment. With their comfortable fit, long battery life, and excellent sound quality, they ensure that your focus and energy will always be on your workout.
View on Amazon: TREBLAB Z2 Workout Headphones
8. Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless In-Ear Earbuds
Best for Durability
What Impressed Us
- Affordable price point
- Compact and lightweight design
- Bass-heavy sound profile
- IP55 rating for water and dust resistance
- Long battery life with charging case
- Tile-enabled for easy tracking
What Disappointed Us
- Sound profile may not be ideal for all users
The Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless In-Ear Earbuds are recognized as the best option for durability, designed to withstand the demands of rigorous and extensive use. These earbuds are the go-to choice for those who prioritize a robust and long-lasting audio device for their workouts and daily activities.
Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and active users, the Skullcandy Sesh Evo is built with a tough and resilient exterior, ensuring they can handle drops, impacts, and the pressures of intense physical activities. Their IP55 rating for sweat, water, and dust resistance makes them exceptionally durable, capable of surviving the elements whether you’re at the gym or outdoors.
The Sesh Evo doesn’t just offer durability but also impressive audio quality with powerful drivers that deliver balanced sound, deep bass, and sharp highs. The earbuds provide up to 5 hours of battery life on a single charge, with an additional 19 hours available through the compact charging case, ensuring they are ready whenever you need them.
In conclusion, the Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless In-Ear Earbuds are the perfect choice for anyone seeking dependable, rugged earbuds that won’t let them down. With their superior build quality, excellent sound performance, and long battery life, they offer a reliable audio solution for the most demanding users and conditions.
View on Amazon: Skullcandy Sesh Evo True Wireless In-Ear Earbuds
Frequently Asked Questions about Wireless Earbuds for Working Out
Yes, you can run in wireless and true wireless earbuds. If you choose the right size and model to suit your ears, the earbuds will not fall off when you run. Lightweight and comfortable earbuds are ideal for running.
True wireless earbuds are a safer choice for working out, as they have some sort of sweat and water-resistant in most cases. Moreover, they don’t have any cords or wires; therefore, they provide you with the complete freedom to exercise and work out. Jabra Elite 65t and 75t are the two best true wireless earbuds for working out. Bose Sport earbuds are the third choice.
Yes. Active noise canceling headphones and earbuds are good for working out, especially if you like some peace as you lift weights and sweat in the gym. They’ll help you relax and focus on your workout session. However, if you like to exercise outside, ANC might not be a good choice as the earbuds will isolate you from the rest of the crowd.
Apple AirPods Pro earbuds are IPX4 water and sweat-resistant. They are small, compact, and perfectly fit in the ears. Sometimes they even fall off, which is risky. Active noise cancellation is both an advantage and a disadvantage. Therefore, AirPods Pro earbuds are good for working out but risky too.
Bose Quietcomfort earbuds are a better choice for working out, as they fit nicely in the ears and don’t fall out. They connect via Bluetooth 5.1 and have active noise canceling (suitable if you workout in a gym). AirPods Pro earbuds also have ANC and deliver great vocals. However, Bose Quietcomfort earbuds are a great alternative to AirPods Pro and are best to go with Android devices.
Conclusion
After thoroughly reviewing various options, we highly recommend the Beats Powerbeats Pro and the Jabra Elite 8 Active as the top choices for the best wireless earbuds for working out in 2024.
The Beats Powerbeats Pro stand out for their exceptional fit and robust battery life, making them perfect for long, intense workouts. Their secure ear hooks and sweat resistance ensure they stay in place and function flawlessly, no matter how rigorous the activity. The sound quality is dynamic and rich, enhancing your workout experience with powerful audio that keeps you motivated.
The Jabra Elite 8 Active, on the other hand, excels with its advanced features, including health monitoring capabilities and active noise cancellation, making them ideal for tech-savvy fitness enthusiasts. These earbuds not only deliver premium sound but also offer practical features like heart rate tracking, which adds significant value for those looking to closely monitor their fitness progress.
Both these products provide outstanding performance, durability, and comfort, making them excellent choices for anyone serious about combining fitness with high-quality sound and functionality. Whether you’re hitting the gym or going for a run, these earbuds will reliably enhance your active lifestyle.
We sincerely hope you found our guide on the best wireless earbuds for working out useful. If you have any comments or questions, please feel free to drop them in the comment section below.
